A flagship in the Toyota model lineup, the Toyota RAV4 has cemented its status as a class-leading compact crossover and delivers the versatile performance that Enfield-area families require. With that being said, the compact crossover segment is replete with top-rated competitors that seek to dethrone the Toyota RAV4. Among those competitors, the Ford Escape stands out and makes a solid case for the top spot. When you examine our 2016 Toyota RAV4 vs 2016 Ford Escape comparison, however, you will see that the Toyota crossover maintains its best-in-class status.
Among compact crossovers, the Toyota RAV4 is a pioneer, and the revamped 2016 Toyota RAV4 has taken the class leader to new heights. A sleek new look is a highlight of the Toyota RAV4 design and includes a bold front end, Hi-Lo headlights, daytime running lights, flowing lines and standard LED taillights. New elements that will further improve the stock of the Toyota RAV4 crossover include a new sport-tuned RAV4 SE trim level, a class-exclusive hybrid powertrain that blends power and efficiency as well as Toyota Safety Sense. When you couple those elements with a cavernous interior loaded with features, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 is tough to beat.
Cargo Space and Hybrid Efficiency Win the Day for the 2016 Toyota RAV4
What sets the 2016 Toyota RAV4 apart from the competition? That is the basis of this 2016 Toyota RAV4 vs 2016 Ford Escape comparison and what can we say that the numbers don’t say for themselves. Standard Toyota RAV4 editions employ a fun-to-drive 176-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Together these elements will achieve 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway in front-wheel drive and 29 mpg on the highway with Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive. When you look at the standard Ford Escape 2.5-liter four-cylinder in comparison, the numbers fall well short.
Inside the Toyota RAV4 cabin, you will discover class-leading cargo space that puts many competitors to shame. Behind the second-row seats, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 provides 38.4 cubic-feet of cargo space that can expand to a cavernous 73.4 cubic-feet of cargo volume. Ford Escape numbers fall short at 34.3 cubic-feet behind the second row and a maximum cargo capacity of 68.1 cubic-feet. An added asset of the Toyota RAV4 interior is the standard Toyota Entune system, which features a standard 6.1-inch touchscreen, rearview camera and Bluetooth capabilities.
The Ford Escape sets itself apart from competitors with an arsenal of three engine options, though none of these deliver the combination of power and efficiency that can match the all-new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Employing a refined 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine and a high-torque electric motor, the available hybrid powertrain manufactures a thrilling 194 horsepower. Paired with a continuously variable transmission and standard Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive with Intelligence, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid makes 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
